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What's the big secret about not listing the price?
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2017 FIAT 124 Spider Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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The anatomy of this spider is far more interesting—and fun—than anything you dissected in high school biology class.
A subset of the automotive community insists the answer to every type of “what car should I get?” question is “Mazda Miata.” This passionate response stems from the fact that the Miata is reliable, inexpensive, efficient, and one of the best-handling cars on the market. And despite this, its small size and plucky, upbeat looks have unfairly earned the Miata a reputation as soft or “a hairdresser’s car.”
Truth be told, the Miata is a car I've enjoyed driving. Maybe those stigmas nipped at the back of mind. The Miata also feels underpowered at times. If only there was a car that had all the attributes of the Miata but in a package that had more muscular looks and a stronger engine. The answer is so perfect that it is exactly those things, and it is called the Fiat 124 Spider—recalling an iconic sports car model originally sold from 1966 to 1985 that's been brought back to life for the 2017 model year.
10/10
The 124 Spider is the result of a joint venture between Mazda and Fiat-Chrysler Automobiles, and it's based on the same platform as the MX-5 Miata, sharing a chassis and many components. It gets built alongside the Miata at Mazda’s Hiroshima, Japan, assembly plant.
As a result, the traces of the Miata present in this vehicle are not surprising. Its diminutive proportions and entire interior design are nearly identical to the Miata's, save for the Fiat logos that replace Mazda emblems.
What is surprising is how much this vehicle looks like a descendant of the original Fiat 124 Spider. The flowing fender haunches, circular LED headlights, and trapezoidal grille all look like honest efforts to evoke its ancestor. The dual power bulges in the hood allude to the original, which had the same power bulges to celebrate the fact that it had dual overhead cams–a cutting-edge powertrain technology for its time. Put one of the new ones next to an original 124 Spider and you’ll swear they are separated by a few years, not a few decades.
Trims for the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider are Classica, Lusso, and Abarth. The Classica is the base trim and comes with standard features such as halogen headlights, LED taillights, push-button start, 16-inch aluminum wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and of course the cloth convertible top. A technology collection adds a 7-inch color screen, backup camera, and remote keyless entry.
Moving up to the Lusso trim adds the gear from the technology collection as well as automatic climate control, heated leather seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. On the Lusso trim, the windshield frame and roll bars are painted to match the silver wheels. This was the case on our test model and delivered a stunning and timeless look.
The range-topping version is the 124 Abarth. The top performance model of the group features a more aggressive lower front grille, Abarth logos, signature “scorpion” logos on the wheelcaps, and heated leatherette microfiber seats. In addition to these visual and performance upgrades, the Abarth has the strongest version of the engine that's used in the 124 Spider lineup, and Fiat's offering a free day of track instruction to Abarth buyers.
9/10
No matter which version of the 124 you select, under the hood sits a 1.4-liter Multi-Air inline 4-cylinder engine. “Multi-Air” is Fiat’s term for turbocharging, and it helps the diminutive engine of the 124 develop 160 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. That's 5 more horsepower and a full 36 more pound-feet of torque than the Miata offers. The Abarth features the same engine tuned to 164 horsepower.
Power gets sent to the rear wheels through either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic with manual tap-shift mode. The Abarth features a Sport mode that revises the throttle response, shift points, and traction control for performance driving. The Abarth also adds other performance equipment, such as Bilstein performance shocks, Brembo performance brakes, and a limited-slip differential.
We drove a non-Abarth version and can confirm that the 124 Spider is every bit a performance machine. Acceleration comes on moderately at first, but as the turbo spools up, speed quickly ramps up, too. The automatic transmission is brilliantly programmed to hold shifts longer during hard acceleration, provide quick downshifts when braking, and hold gears through turns like you would if you were shifting a manual on your own.
The 124 Spider corners like few cars I’ve ever driven. It doesn't have the bone-shakingly firm suspension of a track-day toy, but it is an incredible blend of performance and comfort. It suffers minimal body roll through turns—less than the Miata. When you transition from a hard left turn to a hard right turn, or vice versa, it exposes the shortcomings of a lesser car’s cornering abilities. But the 124 Spider stays perfectly flat through these types of maneuvers, and yet it will also soak up bumps in the road.
6/10
Mastering roadster design is all about making the most of the space you have. Luckily for the 124, it has more space than the Miata. The Spider is 5 inches longer than its Mazda stablemate, and this added length can be found in the more aggressive front end and a trunk that grows to 4.9 cubic feet—enough for a pair of weekend bags.
The cabin is nearly identical to that of the Miata, which is tight, but not so tight that my 6-foot, 3-inch frame feels uncomfortable sitting behind the wheel. The glovebox is not where a glovebox usually can be found, but a lockable cubby between the seats at shoulder level. Two modular cupholders can be moved among three possible spaces—two right in front of the glovebox between the seats and one space along the passenger side of the center console. This ingenious setup helps you manage what little space you have in the 124.
The “Spider” in the 124's name refers to its convertible top, and this one owes its beautifully simple setup to the Miata. It's not a power hardtop or even a power soft top like too many modern convertibles, but it is a completely manual, non-powered setup. This might sound like a pain, but it's actually one of the best tops out there and completely easy to operate. Simply press the large button above the between-the-seats glovebox to raise the top, and it springs up a few inches from the deck. You simply grab the top and pull it over your head with one hand. Once the top is in place, a single clamp cinches it down tight. Dropping the top is just as simple, and the whole process takes just a few seconds.
9/10
The base Classica trim comes with a 3-inch digital screen that controls a 4-speaker stereo with Bluetooth hands-free calling, audio streaming, and USB-port connectivity.
The Connect 7.0 screen is available on the Classica and standard on the Lusso, and it includes a 7-inch screen that can be touch-controlled when the vehicle is in Park, but can be operated via a rotary dial at any time. It adds HD Radio, 2 more speakers, and apps like Pandora, Aha, and Stitcher. If you don’t feel like futzing with either the touch screen or the rotary dial, using voice-control to change the channel or place a call is pretty seamless.
7/10
The available backup camera is a helpful feature, as the rear of the 124 Spider is your only true blind spot with the top down. With the top up, the blind-spot monitor is pretty helpful, though it is set up for what may be a larger or slower vehicle. It still issues alerts when you are well past a vehicle in the next lane.
Perhaps the biggest design flaw for taller drivers is the seat and mirror placement. In the Miata, seat cushions are replaced with a mesh that makes the seats thinner, so you sit closer to the floor of the car. The comfy seats of the 124 Spider are thicker and thus push you closer to the windshield. When combined with the large auto-dimming front mirror, this actually creates a rare frontal blind spot, where the mirror actually obscures a portion of the frontal view for taller drivers.
10/10
In addition to its visibility issue, the Fiat has some unavoidable shortcomings. When the top is up, things get a little tighter—I can’t sit in the car with a hat on. But you adjust the seat and make do, because it's so damned fun to drive. That’s the beauty of the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider—you just look over the little things that might be hang-ups on any other car, because you get so much fun at such a competitive price.
The base Classica trim starts at $24,995, the Lusso starts at $27,495, and the Abarth starts at $28,195. That pricing is almost right in line with the Miata's, but from where I’m sitting, you get so much more with the 124 Spider. You get (a bit) more horsepower, more torque, more muscular styling, and design cues that will age a lot better than the Miata. I had never considered buying a Mazda Miata, despite all its handling attributes. And yet if I were in the market for a new car, I’d go out and buy a Fiat 124 Spider today.
Published May 25, 2021 by George Kennedy
User reviews for 2017 FIAT 124 Spider
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Ash G
Apr 06, 2024
Fun to drive and cannot get enough of it. Apr 06, 2024
by Tom C
Aug 31, 2023
Love the car. Peppy and fun to drive. The only reason it gets 4 instead of 5 stars is the radio is not all that user friendly. I just use Bluetooth and listen to my own music most of the timeAug 31, 2023
by James S
Nov 19, 2022
I really dream of owning one of these awesome machines Nov 19, 2022
User rating:
by Ash G
Apr 06, 2024
Fun to drive and cannot get enough of it. Apr 06, 2024
by Tom C
Aug 31, 2023
Love the car. Peppy and fun to drive. The only reason it gets 4 instead of 5 stars is the radio is not all that user friendly. I just use Bluetooth and listen to my own music most of the timeAug 31, 2023
by James S
Nov 19, 2022
I really dream of owning one of these awesome machines Nov 19, 2022
by Anonymous
May 12, 2022
Liked the model overall. Car suspension a bit stiff - hit bumps a bit hard - and the dealer indicated this was typical so that was my only drawbackMay 12, 2022
by bruno c
May 12, 2022
Very nice car for the price quality made interior May 12, 2022
by William H
May 01, 2022
Head was touching the roof. Nice car for average man sizeMay 01, 2022
by Anonymous
May 01, 2022
Gorgeous design ... getting lots of stares and compliments! Handles great and has lots of power ... with a wonderful sound thanks to the Abarth system! Comes with all the bells and whistles and is very comfortable and roomy for this 5’11” guy! A bucket list achievement.May 01, 2022
by Norbert C
Apr 14, 2022
Love this car still looking was looking for white with saddle but got to tell you the black with saddle is starting to look better Apr 14, 2022
by Bob F
Jul 21, 2021
Strictly looks. Never been in one. 75% of it is the same as the Miata since it was built on the same assembly line.Jul 21, 2021
by Lisa W
Jun 12, 2021
Love the style
I think its a good value.
Convertibles are special seasonal funJun 12, 2021
by michelle C
Apr 17, 2021
Small, but really nice and fun!!!!! Really great secondary car.Apr 17, 2021
by Husam H
Apr 13, 2021
One of the most fun cars for the money! Apr 13, 2021
by Dannon M
Apr 06, 2021
This car is fun to drive! I have no regrets! Apr 06, 2021
by Shaun T
Mar 09, 2021
These cars must be loaded with Turbo engine and Bose sound system. Mar 09, 2021
by Jason M
Nov 25, 2020
I ended up purchasing this vehicle after taking it for a test drive. There really arent any direct competition other than the Mazda MX-5 on which its based, but I like the styling of the Fiat better. The car drives well, is super fun and the top can be taken down/up in a matter of seconds, making it really easy to use. Nov 25, 2020
by Anonymous
Aug 28, 2020
The paint was faded, the piece between the hood and windshield was dull and tires looked warn. First look was not impressive.Aug 28, 2020
by Phillip S
Aug 20, 2020
Good car in great condition and reasonably priced. Aug 20, 2020
What users have asked
colors on fiat 124 spiders
I see on your site a fiat 124 2017 green with tan interior. trying to find a similar vehicle with low mileage and manual.
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FIAT 124 SPIDER ABARTH 11,000 KM
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Car Guru add input choices and pricing algorithms.
Do you mainly cater to dealers? I have posted an add. I noticed that dealer adds with the same vehicle enable more detailed features than the private seller adds, Inputs won't let me note that the engine is a "turbo", however it only appears on the dealer adds. Also your algorithms are not correct nor as fair on my private party add. I have it priced very aggressively, almost at the auction MMR price, and very fair on KBB & NATA, yet my add shows high priced. Your system is not calculating the data correctly, as it pertains to the real market values.
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Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2017 FIAT 124 Spider?Compare this car
2017 FIAT 124 Spider Pricing
Original MSRP
$24,995 to $35,000Price range
$15,281 to $17,213Average price on CG
$15,281YoY price change
$16,986 to $15,281Trims & specs
Air Conditioning
Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Side airbags: front with head protection chambers
Audio System
Antenna Type: mast · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · AM/FM radio · Total Number of Speakers: 4
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Front brake diameter: 11.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.0 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Door trim: leatherette · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Bottle holders: 2 · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Multi-function remote: keyless entry with panic alarm · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: bin · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Manual adjustments: 6
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.45
Engine
Alternator: 150 amps · Battery: maintenance-free
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: integrated · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Infotainment screen size: 3 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Halogen · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: manual folding · Inside rearview mirror: manual day/night
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: soft top
Safety
Crumple zones: front
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat manual adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: premium cloth
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.5 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.7
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: strut · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear
Telematics
Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: variable intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Side airbags: front with head protection chambers
Audio System
Antenna Type: mast · Voice recognition audio system · Auxiliary audio input: jack · Pandora internet radio · AM/FM radio · Total Number of Speakers: 4
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Front brake diameter: 11.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.0 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Dash Trim: Leatherette · Door trim: leatherette · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Bottle holders: 2 · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Multi-function remote: keyless entry with panic alarm · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: phone · Storage: bin · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Manual adjustments: 6
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.45
Engine
Alternator: 150 amps · Battery: maintenance-free
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: integrated · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Warnings and reminders: coolant temperature warning
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Halogen · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: manual day/night
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: with wind blocker
Safety
Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: rear · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat manual adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: leather-trimmed
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.5 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.7
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: mast · Voice recognition audio system · USB auxiliary audio input · Stitcher internet radio · AM/FM radio · Total Number of Speakers: 4
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Front brake diameter: 11.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.0 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Dash Trim: Leatherette · Door trim: leatherette · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Foot pedal trim: aluminum · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Bottle holders: 2 · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: bin · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Manual adjustments: 6
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.45 · Limited slip differential: rear
Engine
Alternator: 150 amps · Battery: maintenance-free
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: quad exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: black · Rear bumper color: body-color · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: integrated · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: range · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Auto on/off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: manual folding · Inside rearview mirror: manual day/night
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: with wind blocker
Safety
Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: rear · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat manual adjustments: reclining · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: leather · Upholstery accents: faux suede
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.5 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.7
Suspension
Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: double wishbones · Front shock type: monotube · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Rear shock type: monotube · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Side airbags: front with head protection chambers
Audio System
Antenna Type: mast · Voice recognition audio system · Bluetooth auxiliary audio input · Stitcher internet radio · AM/FM radio · Total Number of Speakers: 4
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Braking assist: hill start assist · Front brake diameter: 11.0 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.0 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Dash Trim: Leatherette · Door trim: leatherette · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Bottle holders: 2 · Center console: front console with armrest and storage · Multi-function remote: trunk release · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Power windows: lockout button · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: cruise controls · Storage: bin · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Manual adjustments: 6
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.45
Engine
Alternator: 150 amps · Battery: maintenance-free
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Grille color: black · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Window trim: black
Headrests
Front headrests: integrated · Number of front headrests: 2
In Car Entertainment
Infotainment screen size: 7 in.
Instrumentation
Fuel economy display: MPG · Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: auto delay off · Tail and brake lights: LED
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: manual day/night
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Roof
Convertible rear window: glass · Convertible roof: soft top
Safety
Camera system: rearview · Crumple zones: rear · Rearview monitor: in dash
Seatbelts
Emergency locking retractors: front · Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Seatbelt warning sensor: driver and passenger
Seats
Driver seat manual adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Passenger seat manual adjustments: reclining · Upholstery: leather-trimmed
Steering
Steering ratio: 15.5 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.7
Suspension
Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: strut · Rear Shock Type: coil over shock · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): rear
Telematics
Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing